Channel Islands Expeditions - Santa Barbara 301 West Cabrillo Boulevard, Santa Barbara, CA 93109

"Shout out to Captain Tim and Travis on the SUNFISH for an incredible whale sighting experience. We saw a humpback that swam right up to the boat and appear to be playing hide and seek from one side of the boat to the other. The size of the boat was perfect for a close experience with this spectacular creature. Captain and crew knew what they were doing to navigate around the whale and the thousands of dolphins we were able to see. Highly recommend for those who enjoy an adventure!"

"We signed up for the Sea Cave Combo package and it was the best trip ever. Originally we were put on a waitlist for a different (and more expensive) company that had us inconveniently book the ferry + activity separately, but then came across CIE last minute and booked through them. It was a much better choice. From start to finish the whole crew, especially our guide Mark, was stellar. Everyone managing the Sunfish was extremely experienced and kept us very safe. Mark was immensely attentive to our needs, making sure we weren't too cold or needed anything. When we realized we accidentally locked our keys in our car in the parking lot he even offered to call his AAA for us. Later when we flipped our kayak, Mark was very calm and helpful getting us back on. Told us great stories about the pelicans and shipwrecks. Although the water got a bit choppy, we felt very safe, and were advised us to hold onto kelp anchors, and he always scoped out the safety of a cave first before guiding us in. All the advice he gave was super kind and encouraging. He also made sure we got to get photos of the famous arch. We weren't charged for snorkel gear since the crew deemed water conditions unfit, but a lovely impromptu wildlife tour of seeing a sunfish (the boat's namesake!) and pod of dolphins ride the bow more than made up for it. Thanks to Mark, Capt. Tim, and crew for a great adventure!"

"What an amazing adventure! I had the honor of going on a kayaking and snorkeling tour hosted by CIEx out of Santa Barbara. I was delighted with a boat vs dolphins race as we exited the Santa Barbara Harbor and headed towards the Channel Islands. We were escorted to the islands by a pod of dolphins HUNDREDS strong. It was like a dream! CIEx provided us with a safe, fun, and educational adventure; complete with BBQ chicken and ribs, and freshly baked cookies! Our tour guide Matt (I hope I remember his name correctly) was amazing!!! I am physically challenged/disabled, so I had some difficulty with kayaking the open ocean and caves. But Matt tied me to his kayak and towed me safely. Which was GREAT, because it allowed me to continue the cave tour dispite my disability. I am so grateful for the caption and crew of The Truth ⛵ for giving me the perfect trip to prepare my mind and heart for surgery & recovery(which I had 2 days after the tour). Visit my YouTube for the full video of the tour. And check out my review of CIExpiditions on Google! This island is amazing and I only got to see a small percentage of it. I cannot wait to go back!"

"We had the best day out with CIX on our trip to Painted Cave. The trip was a kayak and snorkel day trip. The crew was amazing, everyone was very friendly and knowledgeable. The kayaking was so beautiful and it was cool to get into the caves and learn about them through the guides. The snorkeling was super pretty also! The crew was also awesome at stopping on the boat ride to seek out dolphins and whales. 10/10 recommend for a lovely day out at the islands!"

"My recent kayaking trip with Channel Islands Expeditions was an absolute gem. We departed from the Channel Islands Harbor in Oxnard. There was a CIEx sign set out so I knew I was in the right place to meet. Right from the start, the crew's professionalism and attention to safety made me feel secure and excited. The crossing on the Sunfish was awesome! We got to see a few dolphins and the crew had some fun facts about every animal we spotted during our kayak and snorkeling sessions. The tour was perfectly paced, allowed for us to explore the island and break for a snack mid-paddle. For anyone visiting Santa Barbara, I can't recommend Channel Islands Expeditions enough – they truly know how to create an authentic and remarkable experience."